MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR [2019-2021]: A Hyper-Naked Masterclass

Introduction

The MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a declaration of mechanical artistry. Born from MV Agusta’s relentless pursuit of performance and design, this hyper-naked machine straddles the line between raw power and surgical precision. Produced between 2019 and 2021, the Brutale 1000 RR generation represents a high-water mark for Italian engineering, blending racetrack DNA with street-focused aggression. Having spent time with this machine, I can confirm: it’s as thrilling as the specs suggest, but with nuances that only a rider’s seat can reveal.

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Design: A Symphony of Form and Function

The Brutale 1000 RR’s design is unapologetically theatrical. From its angular LED headlight—complete with cornering lights that illuminate bends like a spotlight—to the exposed trellis frame and single-sided swingarm, every element screams purpose. The carbon fiber accents (standard on the Serie Oro limited edition) add a touch of motorsport grandeur, while the matte red/gold or grey/yellow color schemes ensure it’s never mistaken for anything ordinary.

The riding position is a study in controlled aggression. The 845 mm (33.3-inch) seat height places you in a slight forward lean, gripping semi-handlebars that offer more control than a traditional upright naked bike. It’s a setup that whispers, “This isn’t for beginners.” The split seat design and minimalist tail section keep the rear end taut, leaving the Öhlins TTX shock absorber and gold chain fully visible—a deliberate flex of mechanical jewelry.

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Performance: 208 HP of Controlled Chaos

Engine and Power Delivery

At the heart of the Brutale lies a 998 cc inline-four engine, a masterpiece derived from MV Agusta’s World Superbike efforts. With 208 HP (212 HP with the SC-Project exhaust upgrade) at 13,000 RPM and 116.5 Nm (85.9 lb-ft) of torque at 11,000 RPM, this engine isn’t just powerful—it’s volcanic. Throttle response is razor-sharp, thanks to the Mikuni ride-by-wire system, and the power curve feels like a rising tsunami. Below 8,000 RPM, it’s manageable, almost docile. Beyond that, the Brutale transforms into a missile, hurtling toward its 300 km/h (186 mph) top speed with a spine-tingling howl.

The six-speed cassette-style gearbox (a nod to racing) pairs flawlessly with the MV EAS 3.0 quickshifter. Upshifts are buttery, and downshifts are accompanied by perfectly rev-matched blips. Even at 70% throttle, the sensation is akin to piloting a tuned superbike stripped of fairings.

Chassis and Handling

The steel trellis frame and aluminum swingarm plates strike a balance between rigidity and feedback. At 186 kg (410 lbs) dry, the Brutale feels shockingly light for its class. Flicking it into corners requires minimal effort, and the Öhlins Nix EC forks (120 mm of travel) soak up mid-corner bumps without unsettling the chassis.

But the real magic happens at triple-digit speeds. The aerodynamic winglets flanking the radiator generate downforce above 200 km/h (124 mph), lending stability that defies the naked bike format. The Brembo Stylema calipers—gripping twin 320 mm discs—offer relentless stopping power, though the initial bite is progressive enough to avoid surprises.

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Electronics: A Silicon-Coated Safety Net

MV Agusta’s electronics suite is as sophisticated as the engine. The 5.5-inch TFT dashboard (updated in 2021) is intuitive, offering Bluetooth connectivity for navigation mirroring and ride analytics. The six-axis IMU orchestrates a symphony of rider aids:
- 8-level traction control (or turn it off if you’re feeling brave).
- Front Lift Control (FLC) that permits controlled wheelies.
- Launch Control for dragstrip-ready starts.
- Cornering ABS via Continental’s MK100 system.

The beauty lies in customization. Want a tame commute? Map 4 dulls the throttle response. Weekend canyon carving? Map 1 unleashes the beast, with traction control set to intervene only when rear tire slip exceeds 15%.

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Competition: The Hyper-Naked Arena

The Brutale 1000 RR doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Here’s how it stacks up against rivals:

Ducati Streetfighter V4

• Power: 208 HP (similar)
• Weight: 178 kg (392 lbs) – lighter, but less exotic.
• Tech: Ducati’s electronics are equally advanced, but the Brutale’s Öhlins suspension and radial valve engine feel more special.

BMW S 1000 R

• Power: 165 HP – tamer, but easier to live with daily.
• Price: More affordable, but lacks the Brutale’s exclusivity.

Kawasaki Z H2

• Power: Supercharged 200 HP – brutal low-end torque.
• Character: Less refined, more brute force.

Verdict: The Brutale 1000 RR isn’t the easiest or cheapest hyper-naked, but it’s the most emotionally charged. It’s for riders who value Italian flair and engineering theater over practicality.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Owning a Brutale 1000 RR is a commitment—but one that MOTOPARTS.store can simplify:

Key Considerations:

1. Oil Changes: The semi-dry sump system requires frequent checks (every 5,000 km/3,100 miles). Use 10W-60 full synthetic for optimal protection.
2. Valve Adjustments: Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles). Titanium valves are durable but demand precision.
3. Chain Care: The gold DID chain needs regular cleaning and lubrication. Upgrade to a heavy-duty X-ring chain for longevity.
4. Brake Pads: Brembo Stylema pads wear quickly under hard use. Consider sintered pads for track days.

Recommended Upgrades:

• SC-Project Exhaust: Unlocks 212 HP and a soundtrack worthy of MotoGP.
• Carbon Fiber Accents: Replace stock fairings with lighter, race-inspired panels.
• Adjustable Levers: Improve ergonomics for smaller hands.

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Conclusion

The MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR is a motorcycle that refuses to compromise. It’s demanding, occasionally impractical, and utterly intoxicating. From the way the engine screams past 10,000 RPM to the jewel-like finish on its Öhlins components, every detail reminds you that this is a machine built for riders who worship at the altar of performance.

Is it perfect? No. The seat is firm, the fuel range is limited (16L/4.2 gal tank), and the electronics menu requires a PhD. But perfection is boring—and the Brutale 1000 RR is anything but.

For those ready to embrace its quirks, MOTOPARTS.store offers the upgrades and OEM parts to keep this Italian icon at its peak. Because a motorcycle this special deserves nothing less.

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Specifications sheet

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